As we close the chapter to another year in Dubai’s commercial property market it is clear that this year, we reached extraordinary milestones that speak volumes about the resilience, innovation and global appeal of this dynamic city.
At CRC, we’ve been privileged to witness and contribute to the remarkable transformation of Dubai’s commercial property landscape. The numbers tell a compelling story: 9,038 transactions were recorded this year—a staggering 24% year-on-year increase. Equally noteworthy is the total transaction value, which surged to AED 90.1 billion, marking an 11% YoY growth. These figures aren’t just numbers; they represent the vision of investors, the hard work of entrepreneurs and the trust placed in Dubai as a global hub for commerce and opportunity.
Delving deeper into the market, the average selling price across different property segments at CRC showcased notable variations in 2024, reflecting the unique dynamics of each segment. Warehouse properties recorded an average price of AED 11.9 million, with a 20% YoY increase, while office properties saw a remarkable surge, standing at AED 3.8 million—an impressive 85% YoY growth. These figures underline the growing demand for both industrial and office spaces as businesses continue to expand and thrive in Dubai.
As we close another successful year, we remain committed to driving value, building trust and providing unparalleled expertise to our clients. At CRC, we see every transaction as a story of ambition and growth, and we are honoured to be part of these journeys.
Commercial Sales Transactions | DLD
The commercial real estate market in Dubai has shown remarkable growth over the past five years, reaching new heights in both transaction volumes and total value by 2024. The volume of transactions surged to 9,038in 2024, marking a year-on-year (YoY) increase of 24%, while the total value reached AED 90.1 billion, reflecting an 11% YoY growth.
Off-plan transactions accounted for 22% of the total activity, showcasing a growing investor preference for new developments offering attractive yields and price advantages. However, the secondary market continued to dominate, holding a commanding 88% share of transactions, underscoring the sustained demand for ready and income-generating commercial properties.
Dubai's economic resilience has been a key driver, underpinned by the diversification of its economy and significant growth in fintech, artificial intelligence, and tourism sectors.
Government initiatives, including the AED 25 billion foreign direct investment program, have further bolstered market demand by attracting international businesses and investors. Policy reforms that simplify business operations, enhance investors' residency options and provide tax incentives have made Dubai a global investment hub.
Office Segment Analysis
Dubai's office market showcased robust resilience and sustained demand in 2024, recording 2,972 office sales transactions, a 3% YoY increase. These transactions generated a total value of AED 6.5 billion, the highest on record, reflecting a significant 37% YoY growth. Office sales constituted 33% of the total commercial transaction volume, highlighting the critical role of this segment in the overall market. The demand for office spaces, especially in key business districts, continues to outpace supply, a trend expected to persist as more companies establish operations in Dubai.
A key driver of this growth is the influx of businesses, with over 70,000 new companies joining the Dubai Chamber of Commerce in 2024, reflecting a 3% YoY increase in company registrations. This growth, underpinned by Dubai's business-friendly policies and the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), has significantly bolstered demand for commercial spaces, particularly offices and retail properties.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has cemented its global hub position by attracting major players from China's banking and financial services industry. Notably, 30% of these entities are Global Fortune 500 companies, showcasing the DIFC’s appeal to high-profile organisations.
The most in-demand office locations for 2024 were Business Bay, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), and Dubai Silicon Oasis, reflecting their strategic positions and popularity among businesses. However, the market faces a supply crunch, especially for Grade A offices. Limited high-quality space has created fierce competition, pushing tenants to negotiate favourable lease terms. Medium-sized offices are in high demand, with many businesses opting to renew leases at higher costs rather than face the challenges of relocating.
Demand is largely driven by businesses expanding or relocating due to Dubai's strategic location and strong economy. Financial services firms, including hedge funds and asset management companies, are key contributors. This demand highlights Dubai's global appeal and reinforces its position as a leading commercial real estate market.
The secondary office market dominated activity in 2024, accounting for 94% of total transaction volume. A total of 2,785 transactions were recorded, valued at AED 5.9 billion. Notably, 71% of these secondary transactions involved offices with a built-up area of less than 1,500 square feet (sq ft), reflecting strong demand for smaller, more flexible office spaces to accommodate businesses’ evolving operational needs.
The top locations for secondary office transactions in 2024 were Business Bay with a share of 42%, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) at 31%, and Dubai Silicon Oasis at 7%. These areas remained highly sought after due to their strategic locations, well-developed infrastructure, and appeal to businesses across various sectors.
Upcoming Office Supply
Data from Property Monitor indicates that over 1,400 office units are currently under construction, with delivery timelines stretching from 2025 to 2028. This pipeline highlights a controlled expansion aimed at meeting the growing demand for office spaces in Dubai’s prime business locations. A significant share of these units will be completed in JLT and Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC).
In 2024, key office space additions included 6 Falak in Dubai Media City, A2 within Dubai CommerCity, and Millennium Downtown on Sheikh Zayed Road. Several other major office projects were also unveiled, with expected completion dates ranging from 2027 to 2028. Among the notable upcoming free zone developments are the Immersive Tower in DIFC and Phase 2 of Uptown Dubai. On the other hand, the onshore office market remains tight, with Aldar’s mixed-use development on Sheikh Zayed Road marking one of the recent highlights.
Average Selling Prices: Secondary Market
In 2024, the average price per sq ft stood at AED 1,417, increasing by 27% YoY compared to 2023. This sharp rise reflects strong demand in the secondary market, driven by a supply crunch in Grade A office spaces and high competition for well-located, ready-to-occupy offices.
Key factors contributing to this increase include the surge in new company setups, the influx of global firms, and Dubai's strong economic performance. Additionally, heightened demand for smaller offices, especially in prime locations like Business Bay, JLT, and Dubai Silicon Oasis, has further bolstered price growth.
The market's performance in 2024 underscores the resilience of Dubai’s office sector, its appeal as a global business hub, and the shifting preferences toward ready-built, high-quality spaces in strategic areas.
Retail Segment Analysis
Dubai’s retail real estate market demonstrated exceptional growth and activity in 2024, reaching new heights with a record-breaking 1,364 retail transactions, collectively valued at AED 3.2 billion, marking a significant 34% year-over-year increase. Retail transactions accounted for 15% of all commercial deals, with the off-plan segment dominating the market, contributing 65% of the total transaction value and 53% of the transaction volume.
Record-breaking Performance
- Dubai Mall set a new attendance record in 2024, welcoming over 111 million visitors, surpassing its previous record of 105 million visitors in 2023. This marks the second consecutive year the mall has exceeded 100 million visitors, reflecting substantial growth since 2022’s 88 million.
- An AED 1.5 billion expansion is underway, which will add 240 luxury retail and dining outlets to the site, further cementing its position as a global retail destination.
Aviation-Driven Retail Impact
- Dubai International Airport (DXB) retained its title as the World’s Busiest International Airport for 2024, recording 60.2 million seats. Airline capacity grew 7% YoY and was 12% higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019, further boosting foot traffic for retail spaces associated with the airport.
- Dubai Duty Free achieved record-breaking annual sales of AED 7.9 billion in 2024, with a strong surge in December.
New Developments
- Union Coop has commenced construction of a new community mall in Al Khawaneej Second, expected to be completed by Q2 2025. Spanning 70,700 sq ft, approximately 70% of the retail space is already leased.
- Emirates REIT finalised the sale of Trident Grand Mall, a two-story retail component of Trident Grand Residence in Jumeirah Beach Residences, for AED 73.5 million.
- Sobha Realty has started work on the Dubai Hartland Mall, which will contribute an additional 115,000 sq ft of gross leasable area (GLA) to Dubai’s retail inventory.
- Shamal Holding has awarded McLaren Construction the contract for the Nad Al Sheba Gardens Mall. This two-story retail and F&B destination will span a plot area of approximately 135,625 sq ft.
Industrial Segment Analysis
Dubai's industrial and trade sector demonstrated remarkable resilience and efficiency in 2024, with 35 warehouse transactions collectively valued at AED 284 million. Dubai Investments Park emerged as the most prominent location for these deals, showcasing its continued appeal as a hub for industrial activity. Notably, 30% of the transactions fell within the AED 5-10 million range, underscoring the sector's alignment with medium-scale business investments, which are essential for fueling sustainable economic growth.
The strong focus on strategically located industrial zones like Dubai Investments Park reflects the emirate's commitment to fostering an environment conducive to trade and logistics. By offering a diverse range of warehouse facilities tailored to various investment scales, Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a leader in the industrial and logistics sectors, ensuring robust contributions to its dynamic economy.
Dubai’s industrial and trade sector continues to thrive, bolstered by its exceptional ability to attract Greenfield Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects. In the first half of 2024, Dubai maintained its position as the world’s top city for Greenfield FDI, securing 508 projects and growing its global share to 6.2%. The emirate's advanced infrastructure, investor-friendly regulations, and strategic initiatives have cemented its reputation as a global economic powerhouse.
This robust performance is further highlighted by Dubai’s dominance in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, where it secured the top position for Greenfield FDI capital and projects. Strategic partnerships and a visionary economic framework have driven significant increases in FDI across diverse sectors like business services, software, textiles, and food and beverages.
Dubai’s ability to attract top-tier investors from countries like India, Switzerland, and the United States underscores its global appeal. Additionally, the industrial and trade sectors’ resilience is reflected in increased investments in building materials, IT services, and automotive manufacturing. Together, these achievements solidify Dubai’s role as a leading hub for business and investment on the world stage.
Table of Contents
Recent Posts
- Commercial Property Market Dubai: November 2024 Insights
- Dubai Commercial Property Market: October 2024 Overview
- Abu Dhabi's Office Market YTD: Rising Demand and Prime Locations
- Tecom Group's $463 Million Investment: A Transformative Boost for Dubai's Commercial Real Estate
- Dubai Real Estate Update March 2024 by Behnam Bargh
Latest Insights
The commercial property market in Dubai continued to display robust activity in November 2024, reflecting strong investor confidence and sustained demand across key sectors.Here are some of the latest insights, based on data from Dubai Land Department (DLD) and internal data at CRC, highlighting the trends shaping the commercial real estate landscape.Commercial Sales: A Thriving SegmentNovember witnessed a total of 931 commercial sales transactions, generating a remarkable AED 9.2 billion in value. This robust performance underscores the sustained demand for Dubai’s commercial real estate, bolstered by its reputation as a thriving global business center and its commitment to creating a highly attractive investment climate.Dubai Office Segment: A Focus on Prime LocationsThe office market remained a significant contributor to the commercial property sector:272 office sales transactions were recorded, amounting to AED 1.1 billion in value.The average price per square foot reached AED 1,648, signaling a sustained appetite for premium office spaces.Top Performing Office LocationsKey business districts continued to attract investor and tenant attention, with the following areas leading in office sales:Business BayJumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)TecomJumeirah Village Circle (JVC)Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)These locations stand out for their strategic connectivity, modern infrastructure and variety of office options tailored to businesses of all sizes.Dubai's Retail Property Market Dubai's retail sector continues to showcase its dynamic appeal, with impressive figures highlighting sustained investor confidence. According to recent data from the Dubai Land Department (DLD), the retail sales volume has reached 84 transactions, generating a combined value of AED 218.4 million. These statistics underscore the city's enduring reputation as a prime destination for retail investment.Several neighborhoods have emerged as top-performing areas in retail sales, reflecting a mix of affordability, strategic location, and growth potential. Leading the list is Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), a community known for its growing population and excellent connectivity, making it an attractive hub for retailers. Close behind is International City, popular for its affordability and appeal to small businesses seeking to cater to a diverse demographic.The upscale district of Mohammed Bin Rashid (MBR) City also stood out, driven by its luxurious lifestyle offerings and proximity to key landmarks. Meanwhile, Al Furjan and Arjan rounded out the top five, with both communities benefiting from rapid infrastructure development and increasing residential occupancy.Market Dynamics: Buyer and Tenant Activity on the RiseCRC’s internal data painted a positive picture of market demand:Buyer leads rose by 7% month-on-month, underscoring growing interest from investors seeking opportunities in Dubai's commercial property market.Tenant leads saw a 3% increase month-on-month, reflecting a steady demand for leasable office and retail spaces.This growth in buyer and tenant interest signals a healthy balance between investment activity and end-user demand, positioning Dubai as an increasingly attractive destination for both regional and international businesses.
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In October 2024, Dubai’s commercial property market continued to shine, marked by impressive sales volumes and values that signal robust investor confidence and market vitality.Dubai's Commercial Property Market as a WholeThe Dubai Land Department recorded an impressive 1,044 commercial sales transactions totaling AED 10.9 billion, further cementing Dubai’s reputation as a top destination for commercial real estate investment.Office Segment Snapshot Among these, the office segment stood out, with 304 transactions valued at AED 661.5 million and an average price of AED 1,503 per square foot.When it comes to top office sales locations in Dubai, areas like Business Bay, Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), Tecom, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) and Culture Village lead the way, each offering unique advantages to businesses. Business Bay stands out as a prime commercial hub with modern infrastructure and easy access to Sheikh Zayed Road, attracting a wide range of corporate tenants and investors. JLT provides an appealing mix of office and retail spaces around scenic lakes, appealing to companies looking for a dynamic yet balanced work environment. Tecom, with its dedicated technology and media clusters, attracts firms in media, tech and communications industries, while JVC offers more affordable office spaces amid a growing residential area, ideal for small to medium-sized businesses. Culture Village, with its arts-focused design, presents a more creative environment, drawing in businesses interested in a unique, culturally rich setting. These locations highlight Dubai's diversity, accommodating various industry needs and preferences.Retail Segment SnapshotThe retail segment also performed well, with 135 transactions valued at AED 296.7 million, reflecting sustained investor interest in prime retail spaces throughout the city.At CRC, we see this momentum in retail transactions as a clear indicator of Dubai’s dual appeal as both a business hub and a vibrant retail destination, where demand for commercial and consumer-focused spaces remains robust.The top 5 destinations for retail sales transactions were:International CityMirdifBusiness BayMBR CityJumeirah Village CircleCRC October Overview The office sales and leasing market in Dubai is showing significant momentum, with CRC data revealing a 64% year-on-year increase in buyer leads. Business Bay continues to be the top-performing community for office sales, reflecting its strong appeal among buyers. Moreover, the average selling prices across commercial property types stand at AED 2,531,250 for office spaces, AED 3,600,000 for retail units and AED 10,700,000 for warehouses, showing robust demand and investment potential across diverse sectors.Leasing activity is also on the rise, with tenant leads increasing by 23% year-on-year. Key locations for commercial leasing, such as Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), Business Bay and Media City, demonstrate their continued attractiveness for businesses seeking prime locations. Leasing prices average around AED 462,725 for office spaces and AED 567,398 for retail spaces. The upward trends in both buyer and tenant interest across these areas underscore the resilience and growth of Dubai's commercial property market, particularly in its most sought-after communities.
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Abu Dhabi’s commercial real estate market has seen remarkable growth in 2024, with office spaces hitting a new high. Occupancy levels have soared to 88%, while rental prices have climbed by 15% year-on-year. This robust performance underscores the capital’s increasing appeal as a business hub, driven by both regional and international companies seeking to establish or expand their presence.Booming Demand and Rising RentalsThe significant 15% rise in rental prices is a key indicator of the surge in demand for office spaces in Abu Dhabi. Businesses are attracted by the city’s strategic location, economic diversification efforts and its role as a thriving hub for industries such as finance, energy and technology. The growing need for high-quality office spaces is a reflection of both new market entrants and existing companies expanding their footprint in the capital.The current occupancy rate of 88% highlights the competitive nature of the market, where prime office spaces are increasingly scarce. Tenants are now moving quickly to secure space, driving up both rental rates and competition, particularly in premium locations.Top Office Locations in Abu Dhabi Office MarketAl Reem Island One of Abu Dhabi's most prestigious addresses, Al Reem Island, has become a hotspot for businesses. The island offers a mix of modern office towers with world-class amenities and stunning waterfront views. Its proximity to the central business district, combined with easy access to luxury residential areas, makes it an ideal choice for companies looking to offer employees convenience and lifestyle benefits. Al Reem Island is perfect for businesses in the finance, consultancy and tech sectors and its reputation for premium office spaces continues to grow.Maryah Island Maryah Island stands out as a premium business destination in Abu Dhabi, offering state-of-the-art office spaces within the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) jurisdiction. Known for its prestigious ADGM licenses, the island is a key financial hub, attracting international and regional companies. The area boasts modern, high-end buildings with world-class facilities, making it an excellent choice for businesses seeking a premium office environment. With its strategic location and exclusive status, Maryah Island is ideal for firms looking for a sophisticated, globally recognised base in the UAE capital.Corniche The Corniche area is another prime location for offices in Abu Dhabi, offering stunning sea views and a central position within the city. Known for its iconic waterfront, Corniche attracts businesses looking to combine a prestigious address with scenic surroundings. Offices here are typically found in high-rise buildings that provide excellent amenities. Its central location also ensures easy access to key commercial areas, making it an appealing choice for companies looking to establish themselves in the heart of the capital.Addax Office Tower The Addax Office Tower, located on Al Reem Island, is another top choice for companies seeking high-end office spaces. The tower is a symbol of luxury and efficiency, offering panoramic views of the city and waterfront, state-of-the-art facilities, and large floor plates that can accommodate businesses of various sizes. Its strategic location within Abu Dhabi’s business hub, coupled with top-tier amenities, makes it highly attractive for multinational corporations and local businesses alike. The tower also benefits from the island's proximity to key government institutions and major infrastructure.Al Khalidiyah Al Khalidiyah is prized for its central location, making it one of the most sought-after areas for renting offices in Abu Dhabi. This bustling district offers excellent connectivity to the city’s key commercial hubs, making it highly convenient for businesses. Companies can find office spaces in mid to high-rise buildings equipped with modern facilities, all at competitive rates. For those seeking furnished offices in a prime location, Al Khalidiyah presents a strong option.Mohammed Bin Zayed City Mohammed Bin Zayed City, named after His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, offers a blend of affordability and strategic connectivity. Located on the outskirts of the city, it provides seamless access to major highways such as Al Ain Road (E22) and Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed International Road (E11). This suburban area is an attractive option for companies looking to secure office space at reasonable rents while benefiting from quick access to the capital’s main roads.The Road AheadWith Abu Dhabi’s office market maintaining its upward trajectory, the city is expected to remain a top destination for businesses across a variety of sectors. The strong occupancy rates and rising rental prices suggest a healthy market, though businesses must act quickly to secure prime spaces as competition intensifies. Locations presented above will continue to dominate as top choices for companies looking to establish themselves in Abu Dhabi’s dynamic commercial landscape.For businesses seeking the right balance between quality, location and cost, staying informed about market trends and exploring strategic opportunities in Abu Dhabi's leading office locations is crucial for success.About CRC Abu Dhabi CRC Property Abu Dhabi is a leading commercial real estate brokerage, offering expert services across leasing, sales and investment advisory. With deep knowledge of the local market and a strong presence in key areas across the city. CRC provides tailored solutions for businesses looking to establish or expand in the capital. Whether clients are seeking premium office spaces, industrial properties, or investment opportunities, CRC’s team of experienced consultants ensures a seamless process, helping businesses find the right space to thrive in Abu Dhabi's dynamic commercial landscape.
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Tecom Group has made headlines with its substantial $463 million investment to acquire and develop key commercial and industrial properties in Dubai. This strategic move includes acquiring two office buildings in Dubai Internet City and a significant land parcel in Dubai Industrial City from Dubai Holding Asset Management (DHAM). Additionally, Tecom will develop six new office buildings in Dubai Design District (d3) to cater to the burgeoning demand from the design, fashion, and creative sectors. This development underscores Tecom's commitment to enhancing Dubai's commercial real estate market and supporting its growth prospects.Tecom Group's Acquisition of Two Grade A Office TowersOne of the cornerstone elements of this investment involves acquiring two grade A office buildings in Dubai Internet City from DHAM for Dh420 million. These properties, offering a gross leasable area of 334,000 sq ft, are highly occupied and house esteemed regional and international tech companies. The high occupancy levels and premium tenant mix indicate strong, stable returns for investors, making this a highly attractive investment proposition.Moreover, Tecom's acquisition of 13.9 million sq ft of industrial land in Dubai Industrial City for Dh410 million from DHAM is a clear signal of confidence in Dubai's ongoing economic growth. This expansion opens up new opportunities for businesses seeking premium industrial spaces, further enhancing Dubai's appeal as a global business hub.Dubai Design District's Dh689 million Investment A significant aspect of Tecom's strategy involves Dubai Design District (d3), a subsidiary of Tecom Group, acquiring 629,000 sq ft of gross floor area for Dh136 million as part of phase two of the d3 Design Quarter development. Additionally, Tecom will invest Dh689 million to develop six grade A office buildings with a gross leasable area of 503,000 sq ft, with completion targeted by 2028.This development is driven by strong demand from the design, fashion, and creative industries, highlighting a growing market need. The creation of high-quality office spaces in d3 is expected to attract a wide range of creative businesses, further cementing Dubai’s reputation as a center for innovation and design.Why This Investment Matters & What This Means for Dubai's Business Landscape Tecom Group’s strategic investment reflects a profound confidence in Dubai's commercial real estate market. For investors, the acquisition of high-occupancy properties in prime locations like Dubai Internet City and the development of new office spaces in d3 offer promising returns and long-term value. The focus on expanding industrial space in Dubai Industrial City aligns with broader economic trends, supporting the city's role as a logistics and manufacturing hub.From a business perspective, the influx of new, high-quality office spaces caters to the increasing demand from sectors that are pivotal to Dubai’s diversified economy. The design, fashion and creative industries, in particular, will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, fostering an environment of creativity and innovation.Moreover, Tecom's investment aligns with Dubai's vision to be a leading global city for business, tourism and innovation. By enhancing the commercial real estate landscape, Tecom is not only supporting current economic growth but also paving the way for future opportunities. This strategic move positions Dubai as an attractive destination for international companies looking to establish or expand their presence in the region.Tecom’s CEO, Abdulla Belhoul, emphasised that this "ambitious Dh1.7 billion ($463 million) strategic acquisitions and development plan will capitalise on the unique opportunities that Dubai’s commercial real estate market offers.” This statement encapsulates the essence of Tecom's investment strategy: leveraging Dubai’s strengths to create value and drive sustainable growth.In conclusion, Tecom Group's $463 million investment is a transformative step for Dubai's commercial property market. It offers robust opportunities for investors and businesses alike, reinforcing Dubai's status as a premier global business hub.Are you looking to invest in Commercial Property in Dubai? Browse our portfolio.
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Since the start of 2024, Dubai's real estate market has remained vibrant, with a total of 31,206 transactions recorded. These transactions amounted to a significant total worth of AED 93.93 billion as per data from DLD.The transactions included the sale and purchase of 2,513 buildings and 3,313 plots of land, reflecting sustained activity and interest in both residential and commercial properties across the emirate.We are seeing investors continue to show confidence in Dubai's real estate sector, drawn by its strategic location, robust infrastructure and diverse range of property offerings. The market's resilience and ongoing developments indicate positive momentum for the remainder of the 2024.Merging of Nakheel & Meydan Under Dubai HoldingRecently, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, announced that two of the largest developers, will be merging under the ownership of Dubai Holding.We at CRC believe that by joining forces, Meydan and Nakheel can leverage their respective strengths to optimise resources, streamline processes and implement best practices across all stages of project development. This strategic consolidation brings together two prominent entities renowned for their expertise and innovation in urban development.Furthermore, the combined wealth of experience and knowledge from both entities is expected to catalyse innovation in design, construction and sustainability practices.Collaborative efforts may yield groundbreaking solutions for urban challenges, enhancing the livability, functionality and aesthetic appeal of Dubai's built environment.Commercial Real Estate ForecastsThe commercial real estate market is forecasted to witness continued growth, particularly in sectors such as hospitality, F&B, health and wellness and the industrial market.We at CRC hope to see an increase of new office supply entering the market by developers this year, to cater to the high demand we are witnessing, as Dubai remains a preferred destination for regional and international businesses seeking expansion opportunities.
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